On politics in the Golden State

Latino legislators back illegal immigrant's bid to practice law

July 20, 2012 | 9:52
am

California’s Latino state legislators have stepped up to support an illegal immigrant and law school graduate seeking permission to practice law in the state.

The 23-member California Latino Legislative Caucus has submitted a brief to the California Supreme Court urging it to approve Sergio Garcia’s admission to the State Bar of California. The State Bar has certified to the court that Garcia has met all requirements for admission to the State Bar and urged that he be admitted.

“Any student who has proven their contribution to the public good by earning an education and becoming a productive member of society deserves the opportunity to realize their full potential,’’ said Assemblyman Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens), chairman of the California Latino Legislative Caucus.

The group of eight state senators and 15 Assembly members filed an amicus brief with the court. Garcia was brought to the U.S. from Mexico as a toddler and, after returning to his home country, came back to the U.S. illegally with family members when he was 17.

“Qualified undocumented students and graduates should be granted a law license so that they can become future leaders in the legal profession,’’ said Assemblyman Luis Alejo (D-Salinas).

Photo: Mexico-born Sergio Garcia, who was brought to the U.S. illegally when he was a toddler and returned to California again when he was 17, has received support from state lawmakers to practice law in California. Credit: Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times